Ch14 The Crowned Wolf

(set: $data to StrayHeirs["datastore"])(set: $canundo to false)(set: $array_position to 1)(set: $randarray to (a:(random: 1,20),(random: 1,20),(random: 1,20),(random: 1,20),(random: 1,20),(random: 1,20),(random: 1,20),(random: 1,20),(random: 1,20),(random: 1,20),(random: 1,20),(random: 1,20))) ##Chapter 14 #The Crowned Wolf |Recap>[(display: "recap")] The harbor's waters lie still beneath the setting sun, only your oars provoking a line of ripples that distort the mirrored forms of fishing vessels moored by an aging pier. Behind the pier stone cottages nestle along cobbled streets that wind through cracked gullies in the dusty summer hills; bright flowers tumble along broken walls, and laden grape vines shelter terraces. As your boat bumps against the pier, a lantern blooms in the window of the village inn, and snatches of song emanate. Rain gives you a reassuring smile. "Don't worry, Seline. This area is a far-flung backwater, cut off by mountains from most of Thronheim. Nobody will be searching for us here. And Tertia has been waiting in the village all day; if aught's amiss, she'll warn us." You return his smile(if: $data's marryR is 1)[ until he blushes and looks away](else:)[, though you wonder what lies behind it]. After the terror of the Sorcerer's island, it's hard to feel anxious about merely human enemies. And every bone in your body aches from the long day's rowing on the hard boards of the little boat. Clean linens on a warm bed - perhaps a wholesome meal in a cheerful common room - right now, it seems a miracle that such luxuries might soon lie within your grasp. Andreas says nothing, his dark face brooding. The russet dog leans against your legs, panting. Morael's canine form is safer for now, and in truth you are rather glad to avoid conversing with him. As Andreas lashes the boat to the pier, the door of the inn opens, and a slender figure hurries out, carrying a bundle. "Seline! Rain! Oh, thank heavens!" Tertia keeps her voice low, but her face shines. (if: $data's healedT is 0)[Her wrists are wrapped in fresh bandages, and the foul smell is gone, replaced by the pungent odour of a herbal poultice.] She thrusts the bundle into your arms. "Here, I bought these at the market today." The bundle turns out to be sturdy peasant garb, similar to Tertia's own. You change in the bottom of the boat, grateful for her practicality. You'll be far less conspicuous like this. "Are you all okay? I was terrified you'd never come back... Seline, I wanted to go with them, but Andreas said I'd just get in the way. He insisted I (if: $data's healedT is 0)[stay here, and have my wounds treated.](else:)[wait here with the horses...]" (if: $data's healedT is 1)[[["He kept you safe, Tertia. And buying clothes was a great idea - thank you!" ->safeTertia]]](else:)[[["Tertia, Andreas was right. I'm glad to see you found a healer, but you're in no condition to be battling sorcerers!"->noCondition]]] [["Hmph. He has no right to bully you like that! I'll talk to him." ->supportTertia]] [["What about Norvidge and Grimvold? Are they here too?" ->norvidge]]

She shrugs, eyes cast down. "I was just trying to keep my mind off things." [["What about Norvidge and Grimvold? Are they here too?" ->norvidge]] [["Well, let's see about that inn." ->okay]]

Your voice carries in the abruptly silent inn, and after a moment's pause, everyone roars with laughter. The innkeeper waits for the laughter to die out, then he replies in a loud, pretentious falsetto: "I am so very sorry, madam, but we just sold our last flagon of Zharagaian zinfandel to the gentleman by the bar." [["Oh dear. Perhaps some Saragaian rose instead?" ->rose]] [["How about a pot of ale, then?" ->ale]]

"Right you are, ma'am." The innkeeper slams a fistful of glasses upon the bench, making it rock. Slowly, conversation resumes around you. "So much for being inconspicuous," Tertia sighs. The man near the bar calls her over. "Eh, Sercia! Didn't see you there. These your friends you mentioned?" "Uh, yes," she replies, blushing. "Arvon, this is Se... Semika." "Well, why didn't you say so? Bring 'em over here!" "Hey, not so fast, Arvon! They'll be wanting a table!" shouts a burly man at a table near the roaring fire, where a whole pig turns on the spit. "An' decent company!" adds the woman seated next to him, ignoring Arvon's outraged expression. She smiles at Tertia indulgently and pats the chair beside her. "Come on, love, plenty of room here. Introduce us to your friends, won't you? We get so little company here, some of the menfolk have given up talking and only communicate in grunts." "Aye, an' if you had our womenfolk for company, you'd soon know why!" retorts the burly man. As you make your way to the table, the banter grows rowdier, punctuated by roaring laughter, and soon you and your companions are chattering merrily, devouring platters of roasted pig, and downing jug after jug of foaming ale. The villagers are determined to prove that they are the wittiest, merriest, most welcoming bunch of larrikins this side of the ocean. Despite all the attention, few questions are asked of you, and even fewer answers listened to. [["So why is this place called the Crowned Wolf?" ->crownedWolf]] [["Any news from Stelgarte?" ->newsStelgarte]]

Again, laughter echoes around the bar for no obvious reason. "Again I must apologise, Madam, for it seems our regular supply of Saragaian rose has suffered some kind of, uh, interruption." His words provoke even more hilarity; apparently this is what passes for entertainment around here. [["Umm, well, I guess, some red wine, then?" ->redwine]] [["How about a pot of ale, then?" ->ale]]

The man sitting at the bar rolls his eyes. "He only serves ale, woman!" This provokes even more laughter. [["Very well then, I'd like a pot of ale, please." ->ale]]

The villager turns out to be a lively and nimble, if uncouth, partner; he whirls you around and back and forth until you're out of breath. As you bend backwards, dark eyes lock onto yours from the corner of the room. But before you can escape, your partner spins you neatly into his arms, and the next time you see Andreas, his back is turned. When the dance concludes, Rain threads his way through the crowd to you. "If I may?" To your relief, the villager bows and steps back; Rain takes your hand. (display: "danceWithRain")

Rain smiles. "I am so sorry, but I just asked the lady Semika to dance." Over Rain's shoulder, dark eyes lock onto yours from another corner. But you're pulled away, and the next time you see Andreas, his back is turned. (display: "danceWithRain")

Rain pulls you into a tight embrace. For long moments, you stand gazing into his eyes. The music seems to fade around you. (set: $data's likesR to it + 2) Then you realize the music has, in fact faded. (display: "tryThis")

You look around. Where has Andreas got to? (display: "tryThis")

Dancing with Rain is always a delight; he moves with the same precision he brings to fencing, and the same sensitivity and rhythm with which he plays the lute. Your body feels feather-light, spinning and gliding under his expert hands, trusting him to catch you in the most difficult of turns. (set: $data's likesR to it + 2) When the song ends, you're flushed and out of breath. Rain grins at you. "One more?" [["That's enough for me." ->moveAwayRain]] [["Why not?" ->slowDance]]

Before you can move on, a village girl grabs your arm and drags you into a corner to extract Stelgarte's latest fashions from your brain. As the night progresses, you find yourself looking around, hoping to catch Andreas's eye. But he's nowhere to be seen, and you are quickly drawn back into the vortex of peasants, who have clearly not had five strangers to impress in far too many months. It's past midnight when the revelry subsides enough that you can take your leave without offending anybody. Your feet ache from dancing, and you weave along a floor that seems to dip and sway. But the villagers' good humor is infectious, and you're humming your favorite tune as you climb the narrow stairs to your room. You shut the door behind you, not bothering with a candle, loosen your corset, and are about to collapse upon the simple cot bed when a shadow crosses the moon-drenched window. You gasp. "Seline." The voice is harsh, rumbling, sensual. [["Andreas! Don't scare me like that!" ->whatDoing]] [["What are you doing here?" ->whyLeave]]

It's glutinous and peppery, with a hint of root vegetable and a surprising kick. [["I think it's got a lot of, uh, potential! People in Stelgarte are always looking for something new. Go for it!" ->greatLiqueur]] [["Wow... that's a really interesting texture. Maybe a little less pepper would allow the, uh, more delicate flavors to shine?" ->lessPepper]]

"Oh." The man's face falls. "I just thought, since you're from the big city and all, you might be able to... never mind..." He retreats, looking embarrassed. (display: "party")

The small man glows. "Hear that, Arvon! She says it's got potential! Wait till I tell my Tanzy. All those years she told me I was wastin' my time with them turnips..." He strides away, still muttering to himself. (display: "party")

The man looks dubious. "But then how am I going to hide the turnips?" "Add less turnips?" suggests Rain. The villager shakes his head. "Can't do that!" He sighs, and trudges away. (display: "party")

He bows his head. "My apologies, Your Highness. I didn't mean to startle you." [["Have you been hiding here all night?" ->hereAllNight]] [["Why'd you leave? I was looking for you!" ->whyLeave]]

He sighs. "Yes." [["Andreas, what's wrong?" ->whyLeave]] [["Why'd you leave? I was looking for you!" ->whyLeave]]

"Seline..." he hesitates. Your heart thumps. But his next words drain the blood from your cheeks. "I came here to say goodbye." [["What? Andreas... you're ... leaving? Please, tell me you're joking." ->whyGoodbye]] [["What the hell, Andreas? You're *leaving*?" ->whatHell]]

"I am not joking." (display: "why")

He takes a sharp breath, as if it hurts him. "You must not. Seline... don't you understand?(if: $data's toldANotMarryR is 0)[ It's Rain you should be relying on. Not me.]" (set: $data's likesA to it + 2) [["I understand. Farewell, Andreas." ->kbye]] [["Andreas, please... don't you love me?" ->loveMe]](if: $data's marryR is 0 and $data's toldANotMarryR is 0)[ [["Andreas, I won't marry Rain! I can't stand the thought of it, and he knows that!" ->notMarryRain]]]

Andreas bows his head. For a few moments, he's silent, as if his train of thought is shattered. Then he glances at you again. "Seline... I do not think this is the time to decide that." He hesitates, seeing your expression. "Hear me out! I am not saying you are wrong, only that you need space to consider. What's at stake here is more than Rain's fate, or yours or mine for that matter. And if I am honest, I know that my presence can only pull you in the direction of disaster." (set: $data's likesA to it + 2)(set: $data's toldANotMarryR to 1) You realise you're clutching your arms across your chest. Tears prick at your eyelids, but you refuse to let them fall. (if: $data's toldAndreas is 1)[[["But Andreas... you are the heir of Saragai! You don't have to leave me... it doesn't have to be Rain..." ->heirSaragai]] ][["Andreas, please... don't you love me?" ->loveMe]] [["I understand. Farewell, Andreas." ->kbye]]

Andreas shakes his head angrily. "And that is the strongest reason of all. Seline, (if: $data's "persuadedAKing" is 1)[I have not forgotten what you said to me, that night in the Forest. But even if I saw myself as you do - even if I somehow believed myself worthy - right now](else:)[do you think I've not thought on this?] I cannot claim the throne. All I can do is divide the hearts and loyalties of good men, at the very moment when unity is crucial! No, I will not do it. The lost heir of Saragai must not return." (set: $data's likesA to it + 1) [["Andreas, please... don't you love me?" ->loveMe]] [["I understand. Farewell, Andreas." ->kbye]]

For the first time, he looks at you full on. He drops to one knee, pressing your hand to his face; tears warm your palm. "Seline..." he whispers, "you are the breath of life itself to me." (set: $data's likesA to it + 5) And then, in one quick movement, he stands, draws his cloak about him, and leaves. You hear his footsteps on the stairs, holding your breath, telling yourself he'll return, he'll change his mind, he *has* to. But he doesn't. Hooves clatter on the cobbles outside and fade into silence. You wait by the window, but the night is still. (if: $data's gotRing is 1)[As you loosen your clothes, you feel a small, hard circle in your pocket. Through the cloth, you touch the curved edge of rounded metal and inlaid stone. You remember its beauty, but feel no urge to light a candle.](else:)[When at last you curl into your bed, something small on the pillow jabs your cheek. You pick it up, feeling the curve of rounded metal and inlaid stone. You remember how beautiful it looked, but feel no urge to light a candle. Instead, you slip Andreas's ring into a pocket. (set: $data's gotRing to 1)] (display: "ch15")

------- (display: "skills") <script>window.StrayHeirs.createChapter(15)</script>(print: "<a href=\"ch15.html\">Chapter 15</a>")

"Farewell, Your Highness." He hesitates a moment, face turned aside, as if trying to summon the right words. And then, in one quick movement, he draws his cloak about him, and leaves. Listening to his footsteps descend the stairs, you're still numb with disbelief; surely he'll return, he'll change his mind, this can't be the end... even if it must be. But he doesn't, and a few moments later, you hear the buckskin mare's hooves clatter on the cobbles outside and fade into silence. (display: "ch15")

"Oi, Semika! Raymond! Got a minute?" It's another of the villagers. He's waving a greenish bottle over his head. You are dragged off into a corner to sample a thick liqueur. The villager wants to know if you can guess what it's fermented from, and whether he could sell it in Stelgarte. [[Try a sip. ->sipLiqueur]] [[Decline. ->notSip]]

Tertia blushes, but Andreas makes no response. [["What about Norvidge and Grimvold? Are they here too?" ->norvidge]] [["Well, let's see about that inn." ->okay]]

Its lights glimmer golden in the deepening blue of dusk, and a few villagers are shuffling down the street towards it. A faded sign dangles above the lintel; you can just make out the image of a fat wolf wearing a crown. It seems safe enough. And besides, at this point you can neither sail off into the night, nor stay in your boat, without provoking suspicion. You look back at your companions. Rain nods. Andreas inclines his head. "After you, Highness." As you open the door of the inn, people fall silent and a dozen heads turn curiously. Some look away politely after a moment, but several continue to stare. The innkeeper sets down a glass he's polishing, responding to your greeting with merely a curt nod. Plastering on a broad smile, you approach the bar. [["A jug of your best Zhargaian zinfandel for myself and my friends, please." ->bestWine]] [["How about a pot of ale?" ->ale]]

"Yes." The word is short, blunt, ripped from the gut. [["Please tell me you're joking." ->whyGoodbye]] [["I... I just don't understand. After everything you said... why?" ->whatYouSaid]]

In the slant of moonlight through the window, you can barely make out any expression. His dark eyes are cold and inhuman as the ocean by night. "We know there's a traitor in the Saragaian court. King Estevan is in mortal danger, Seline. I believe I may be able to expose the traitor - but I must move quickly." [["We're all going to Saragai anyway. Why separate now?" ->whyNow]] [["I understand. Farewell, Andreas." ->kbye]]

"I know what I said, Seline!" (display: "why")

"You've never heard? Well, the tale goes that once upon a time, there was a prince cast out into the woods by his wicked step-mother. A she-wolf found him and suckled him, and so he grew up, raised by wolves. Eventually there was a revolution, the king was killed, and hunters came looking for the boy. They tracked him down and found him eating raw meat with his pack. But he was the rightful king, so they captured the boy and brought him home." [["And then?" ->andThen]] [["Huh. So, any news from Stelgarte?" ->newsStelgarte]]

"Last I heard, the city was in an uproar," offers one man. "They say the Princess Seline's been abducted." "Didn't she elope with Prince Rain?" asks a woman. Your spine prickles. The man continues: "T'was not clear. Some said it one way, and some the other. Anyway, that was a week ago, when I was up in Longport. Most likely, she's been found by now." He shrugs. "Good luck to her, I say," says the woman. "Poor thing, locked up in the castle from dawn to dusk, and set to marry a stranger. T'is no wonder she ran away." The man snorts. "*If* that's what she did. And what do you mean, poor thing? Silken gowns and feather beds? Dances and feasts every night? I don't think there's a woman in this village who wouldn't change places with her - nor many of the men, neither!" The woman purses her lips. "Well, you may think that. But I'd rather be free to stroll by the water's edge as I please, and feel the sand on my toes - and to work for my bread, yes." (display: "bard")

After an hour or so, a plump grey-bearded bard staggers in, to universal applause. You watch him warily as he strikes up a cheerful folk song on an old fiddle, but his rheumy walnut-brown eyes show no flash of green, and you eventually conclude that he's no more than he seems. The villagers drag aside the tables and soon all but the most determined drinkers are dancing. At last you find a quiet corner with Rain and Tertia. For a few moments, nobody says anything. Tears fill your eyes. It's hard to believe you are safe and free - for now at least - and that your dearest friends are here with you. And yet this can be only a brief respite, for escaping the Sorcerer will not stop the war. You feel a warm hand clasp yours, then a second overlays it. When you open your eyes, Rain and Tertia are gazing at you. "Seline, we're here for you," Tertia says. "We'll *always* be here," adds Rain. "No matter what." It's too much. You know you owe them explanations, but there's a hard lump in your throat that won't let you talk, and anyway, how could you ever compress what happened into words? They don't push you. Instead you sit in silence, feeling their love for you in simple acceptance and nearness. At last Tertia pushes back her chair. "I don't know about you two, but I need some sleep." You nod, yawning. But as Tertia disappears up the stairs, a wet nose pushes against your hand. You look down into Prince's amber eyes. He cocks his head, still staring at you, clearly asking permission. [["Not now, Morael!" ->notNowPrince]] [["Okay, fine." ->transform]]

"Well, some say he became a mighty king, and all the wiser for his time among the beasts. And others say he prayed to Tlathel, who transformed him into a wolf, and he fled back to the forest, leaving the throne to his cousin. But ever since, the wolves in the hills around here wear the marks of the crown around their ears. After all, he *was* the rightful heir." The old man shrugs. "Probably the whole tale is nonsense." (display: "bard")

The next song is slower, more intimate. As you sway and step in intricate circles, his dark blue eyes find yours, and it's as if you're alone with him; nobody else in the room matters. (set: $data's likesR to it + 2) "Seline..." he murmurs in your ear. You are near enough to feel his heartbeat. In the drunken warmth, other couples have dropped the formal steps of the dance and stand swaying, embracing or kissing. The scent of Rain's body draws you. [[Move closer. ->moveCloseRain]] [[Twirl away. ->moveAwayRain]]

"I'll move faster alone." He pauses. "Seline, can you not understand? I do not help you by remaining. The Sorcerer is no longer a threat, you don't need my protection. No, the great risk now is that King Torveld's men may get wind of you. And of all our party, I am most easily recognized. You and Rain, dressed as commoners, could be any pretty young couple. And Tertia is not widely known. But there's been a price on my head for years, and my face is not so forgettable." He gestures at the grim scar that tugs his mouth to one side and curves full to the eye socket. You flinch. "Every moment I'm here, I put you in danger, Seline. Whereas if I can stave off Estevan's death, I might give you time to reach him." [["I understand. Farewell, Andreas." ->kbye]] [["Don't make excuses. You're doing this because you want to." ->youWantTo]]

He winces. "I am doing this because it's the only way I can truly serve you. But as for what I want... I will not lie. To be so near you, and unable to touch you, nor even look at you the way I wish - it is acutely painful, Seline.(if: $data's toldANotMarryR is 0)[ And I've come to know Rain too well to sustain my contempt; it sticks in my throat to admit it, but he's a decent man. I do not aspire to decency myself, but even so, I dislike knowing that I would destroy the partnership of two good people merely to prolong a daydream.]" (set: $data's likesA to it + 2) [["So you *are* running away." ->runningAway]] [["Andreas... what's going on? None of that bothered you before. Something's changed, hasn't it?" ->sorc]](if: $data's marryR is 0 and $data's toldANotMarryR is 0)[ [["Andreas, I won't marry Rain! I can't stand the thought of it, and he knows that!" ->notMarryRain]]]

"Yes. More than manipulated..." He sighs, and his scar twists in a grimace of pain. (display: "whatSorcerer")

"Kiaru was my... my mentor, Seline. Hell, he was the nearest thing I had to a *father*. And now we know what he truly was. How effortlessly he held our hearts and minds on puppet-strings and made us dance to his purpose. I disliked him, but I never guessed the depth of his mastery. How can I trust any thought to be my own, when I was shaped half my life by such a power? How can I trust even my own desires?" (set: $data's likesA to it + 1) [["Kiaru didn't want you to like me. It ruined his plan." ->ruinedPlan]] [["I guess I see what you mean. But Andreas, how can you do this? Don't you understand, I ... I'm relying on you!" ->relying]]

"Perhaps so - if you believe him. But don't you see - it is not merely that I feel what he wished me to feel, but that I *am* a thing of his creation. That knowledge spreads through my soul like oil - everything is tainted and darkened. I no longer know what matters to me, Seline - except to serve you, and yet to be near you is torture. So I crave a simple and solitary task, the more dangerous the better." (set: $data's likesA to it + 1) [["But Andreas, how can you do this? Don't you understand, I ... I'm relying on you!" ->relying]] [["So you *are* running away." ->runningAway]] [["I understand. Farewell, Andreas." ->kbye]]

"If that is how you wish to see it." His tone is icy. (display: "kbye")

He takes a deep breath. "Kiaru is the Sorcerer. Have you thought of what that means to me?" (set: $data's likesA to it + 1) [["He's been manipulating you ever since you were a child." ->manipulated]] [["Not really." ->whatSorcerer]]

One of the villagers stomps over. He grabs your arm and tugs you toward the dance floor. "Come on, Semika! That boy making you gloomy? He can spare you for one dance. Show me how they do this one in the capital!" It is, in fact, a tune you're quite fond of. And to refuse would look churlish. [["Oh, very well then!" ->okayDance]] [["Umm..." ->helpRain]]

At that moment, there's a lull in the music, and your whisper carries. Rain's eyes widen. One of the villagers laughs. "You named your dog after the Prince of Saragai?" [[(set: $difficulty to 10)(set: $skill_name to "Deceive")(display: "makeDice"): "No, of course not! That would be totally disrespectful. Who does that?" ->whoDoesThat]] [[Just blush. ->blush]]

(display: "dice")(set: $data's deceive to it + 1) (if: $success is true)["Sheesh, lass. T'was said in jest. No need to debate the matter." (display: "eyeRoll")](else:)["Oh, really? 'Cause, I heard what I heard." Rain puts a hand on your arm, warning you. [[(set: $difficulty to 10)(set: $skill_name to "Will")(display: "makeDice"): "Well, you heard wrong, buddy." ->excuseMe]] [[Just roll your eyes at them. ->eyeRoll]]]

The villager shakes his head, grinning at you knowingly. "Well, he does kind of look like him. Got the auburn fur an' all." His neighbor snickers. "Oh, yeah. I bet she loves stroking that silky pelt every night." Rain puts a hand on your arm, warning you. [["Excuse me?" ->excuseMe]] [[Just roll your eyes. ->eyeRoll]]

(display: "dice")(set: $data's will to it + 1) (if: $success is true)["Aye aye ma'am! Just as you say!" The men turn away, snickering.](else:)[The men laugh. "Take it easy, miss. It's cute you named him after your crush."] (display: "transform")

Laughing, the men turn away. (display: "transform")

You glance down at Prince exasperatedly. In response, the russet dog plants his front paws on your thigh and licks your cheek tentatively. Nothing happens. Wincing, you open your mouth slightly. The dog's tongue flickers damply against yours. He makes a small squeaking sound, a bottled-up yelp, and bolts out of the inn. Minutes later, the conversation abruptly falls silent once more as the door swings open and Morael enters, clad in fisherman's garb. He marches up to the bar, meeting nobody's eyes. Though most of the men soon look away, women's glances linger on his back. By the time he's quietly downed a beer, the locals have at last lost interest, and he makes his way to your table. "Thank you," he murmurs. This time, you keep your voice down. [["What are you doing?" ->whatMorael]] [["No problem." ->noProblemMorael]]

He lowers his eyes, flushing at your tone. "I think it is necessary that we speak, Se - Semika. May I?" He gestures at a chair. [["Here? Now? It's too dangerous!" ->dangerous]] [["Of course." ->noProblemMorael]]

Setting his glass upon the table, Morael sits and leans back, amber eyes studying you. The coarse, heavy peasant jerkin is not flattering to his form, yet he looks perfectly at ease in it. "I will not ask what happened, back there. I know too well the horrors of that place. I am only glad that you are returned to us." [["Good." ->dontAsk]] [["I couldn't... there was no way to win. But I did speak with him." ->spokeWithSorcerer]]

"I do not think so. We are in a far-flung, isolated village, and almost everyone believes me dead, remember." Rain nods. "Besides, everyone saw him when he came in. Talking won't make things much worse." (display: "noProblemMorael")

"Then let us speak of the future." He lifts his glass, swirls the contents, puts it down without drinking. (display: "iUnderstand")

Morael frowns. "Do not trust his words, Seline. Even when he speaks the truth, he weaves nets of deception. It is his nature." [["I know. Still, there's something I have to -" ->haveTo]] [["True. And we have other matters to discuss." ->dontAsk]]

"There isn't - " he hesitates, realizing he's raised his voice, and people are staring - "not now, anyway." He shakes his head. (display: "iUnderstand")

Morael smiles, though the lines of his face seem strained with weariness. "Yes. I owe you that and more." Rain grins at him. "Thank you, brother. Without you, I feared they would not listen to us at all. I am little more than a stranger to them - and she is the daughter of the enemy." "I wish I could deny it," agrees Morael sadly. [["Well, that's settled then. Thank you, my friend." ->gotYourBack]] [["But what about the spell?" ->whatAboutSpell]]

"What shall we do now? That is the question I must ask. For I see no safe path ahead, and our nations still stand upon the brink of war." Rain looks at you. "I must return to my grandfather," he says. "I am needed in Isholme. As for Semika... " he pauses, biting his lip. "I do not think she wishes to go back to her family." Warmth blossoms inside you. (if: $data's marryR is 0)[You privately suspect that Rain would much prefer to send you home to what he considers safety - especially after the awkwardness of your last conversation. But his tone reveals no such doubt; it appears he has, at last, decided to respect your judgment, even if he disagrees.](else:)[Will he tell Morael *now*? Between the dog's keen senses and the man's insight, he won't be surprised. And part of you can't wait to share the news. (if: $data's gotRing is 1)[Yet another part hesitates. You put one hand in your pocket.](else:)[Yet another part relishes the secrecy - and you've had no chance to speak privately with Rain since Caer Goroduin. (if: $data's sedK is 1)[You shudder at the brush of half-formed memories - a shiver that is partly horror, and partly something far more troubling.]] Perhaps this isn't the time.] Your feelings must be written on your face, for Rain, smiling, lifts your hand and squeezes it. "I think she intends to travel to my home with me, and negotiate directly with Grandfather. And I think she shall prevail, and make peace between our families." Morael takes a deep breath. "Then I shall go with you both." [["Great! With you there, it'll be much easier to get Estevan to trust me." ->greatEasier]] [["But the spell isn't broken yet!" ->notBroken]]

"And likely never shall be." You open your mouth to challenge that, then close it. This is a private matter for him as well as you. And if he is coming to Isholme anyway, you will have plenty of opportunities to raise it more discreetly. Morael seems relieved at your silence. (display: "explainMorael")

"Is it always this painful?" Morael smiles wryly. (set: $data's likesM to it + 1) "At least you didn't get beaten up, thrown in prison, sentenced to death, dropped down a waterfall and half-eaten by a tree. I'd say you've had it easy." Rain grins at him. "A valid point. Maybe next week?" Rain laughs. "Maybe." "But for now, I think I shall retire, in the hope that an early night shall forestall such misadventures." [["Goodnight, then." ->goodnightPrince]] [["Please, don't go yet! You haven't even danced!" ->stayUpMorael]]

"I am fortunate beyond all reason, to have found such friendship." Morael's smile brims with heartfelt warmth, and his amber eyes glow as he grips your hand. "But for now, I think I shall retire. We are all exhausted, and I am sure you have much to say to one another." (set: $data's likesM to it + 2) [["Goodnight, then." ->goodnightPrince]] [["Please, don't go yet! You haven't even danced!" ->stayUpMorael]]

Morael nods. (display: "explainMorael")

"Please, let me explain. I well recall my words to you, that night in the forest. You were the first person I spoke to since my transformation - the first to whom I confessed my true nature and foolish history. Until that moment, I did not realize the true depth of my shame. Yet you did not spurn me, nor rebuke me as you might. And so, as is often the case, in hearing my own confession my heart began to change. In the days since then, I have reflected upon my own choices, and I see no honor in hiding in a foreign land while my people are in peril. I may not be fit to rule them, yet I can still serve." (set: $data's likesM to it + 1) Rain jumps to his feet and catches his brother in a warm hug, grinning. "I knew you'd see it that way, once you'd had a chance to think things through. But I still think you should take the throne. Saragai needs you!" Raising a finger to his lips, Morael shakes his head ruefully. "Of that, I am not convinced, brother. My flaws are all the more apparent to me now." [["Becoming more self-aware is a good thing, Morael." ->selfAware]] [["Well, whatever you decide, we've got your back." ->gotYourBack]]

(if: $data's marryR is 0)[ You turn to Rain with a smile, but it fades when you see his sober expression. "I hope we're doing the right thing. I know you well enough to know you won't change your mind about this, but Seline, please don't underestimate the risks." You bite your lip. But before you can reply, one of the villagers claps a hand upon your shoulder. "Come on, Semika! That boy making you gloomy? He can spare you for one dance. Show me how they do this one in the capital!" It is, in fact, a tune you're quite fond of. And to refuse would look churlish. [["Oh, very well then!" ->okayDance]] [["Umm..." ->helpRain]]](else:)[You turn to Rain with a smile, which he warmly returns. Physically at least, he's fully recovered from his misadventures, and his lithe physique draws you like a magnet. (set: $data's likesR to it + 2) His storm-blue eyes, almost violet in the firelight, meet yours with open joy. "Alone at last! Well, in a crowd of strangers, at least. But, oh, Seline... all night, I've been unable to think of anyone but you. First Tertia - then him - when all I wanted was to hold your hands and gaze into your eyes." [["We could just tell them. It's not like anyone would be surprised." ->couldTellThem]] [["Oh, Rain! I love you so much." ->loveyaRain]]]

Morael glances at Rain, uncertain. (set: $data's likesM to it + 2) "Yes, please stay, brother! We've had so little time to talk, and this is a rare chance for you to enjoy human company. Do not closet yourself away again!" Morael looks between the two of you, still hesitating. You nod firmly. He raises his hands in surrender, smiling. "I suppose one more cup would do no harm." [[(set: $difficulty to 6 - ($data's likesM/4))(set: $skill_name to "Charm")(display: "makeDice"): "One cup, and one dance. Come, Morael, you deserve this moment of freedom from your troubles." ->deserveFreedom]] [["Yes, let's drink!" ->drink]]

(display: "dice")(set: $data's will to it + 3) (if: $success is true)["You cannot gainsay a lady, brother," adds Rain. "It would be ungentlemanly." (set: $data's danceM to 1) "Ah, then I see I have no option." Morael's bow is too graceful for his bulky attire. (set: $data's likesM to it + 3) He lowers his lips formally to your hand. "If I may?" He leads you to the middle of the room. The fiddle is quickening now, launching into a lively staccato tune full of rapid falls and ripples like a tumbling stream. It's new to you both, and the rhythm catches you both unawares, making you stumble and collide. Morael laughs, blushing. "I am out of practice, I fear." But he catches on quickly. In a few moments, his lead becomes strong, his timing flawless, and your body starts to anticipate his moves, responding even before your mind. You relax. The music no longer seems too fast; its rapid beats and twists now make you feel like an otter playing in a wild river. Sensing your renewed confidence, Morael's smile becomes challenging. He spins and lifts you with increasing daring, relying upon your new-found synchrony. You're warm all over, and every time he pulls you close you're conscious of the pleasant scent of new-broken sweat upon his skin. When the music ends, you stand panting, aware that your cheeks are flushed, your limbs loosened, almost at melting point. Morael looks into your eyes, smiling happily. "Seline," he murmurs, "thank you. I can't tell you what that meant for me. It has been so long since I felt... truly human." Rain hurries up. There's tension in his shoulders. Seeing his expression, Morael turns crimson and steps back abruptly. Rain takes your hand, still glaring at Morael. "I believe it's *my* turn now, brother?" "Yes, of course," Morael ducks away, looking confused and hurt. "I should be going, anyway." Rain tugs you firmly away. [["Rain, don't be so rude. We were just dancing!" ->justDancing]] [[Let him. ->danceRainAnnoyed]]](else:)[Morael smiles warmly at you, and the hint of a blush deepens his golden complexion. But then he looks at Rain, whose shoulders are suddenly stiff. "My apologies," he says regretfully. "I am out of practice, and would be unworthy to accompany you on the floor." Rain smiles. "Well, brother, *I* am looking forward to hearing more of your adventures - and of life in Isholme! You know, I barely remember the palace there..." (display: "drink")]

"I know that," Rain grumbles. "Do you want to dance, or not?" [["Of course." ->danceRainAnnoyed]] [["I don't really feel like it any more." ->grumptryThis]]

You can feel Rain's annoyance in every move; he's sharp and impatient, and misses several beats, even treading on your toe once. This is most unusual; he is normally an excellent dancer. By the end of the dance, you're anxious and flustered, and quite grateful when you hear a loud voice behind you. (display: "tryThis")

Three cups later, Morael and Rain are deep in reminiscences. At first, it's fascinating to hear their memories of the court and royal family of Saragai, especially as Rain has so rarely spoken of them previously. But over time, as they laugh together about people and events you've never heard of, your eyes start to glaze over. One of the villagers stomps over. He grabs your arm and tugs you toward the dance floor. "Come on, Semika! These boys boring you? They can spare you for one dance. Show me how they do this one in the capital!" It is, in fact, a tune you're quite fond of. And to refuse would look churlish. [["Oh, very well then!" ->okayDance]] [["Umm..." ->helpRain]]

{ (print: "<script>$('html').removeClass(\)</script>") (if: (passage:)'s tags's length > 0)[ (print: "<script>$('html').addClass('" + (passage:)'s tags.join(' ') + "'\)</script>") ] }

Andreas shakes his head. "I sent them back to camp."(set: $canundo to true) [["What! Why?" ->whySend]] [["Oh, okay. Well, let's see about that inn." ->okay]]

"Did you think we expected to survive this quest, Seline? Defying the sorcerer, stealing his chosen prey? We knew we would not win through numbers... and we thought somebody should return to Stelgarte to tell of your true fate. If it were up to me, none but I should have gone near Caer Goroduin. But only Norvidge and Grimvold could be persuaded to leave." You cannot fault his reasoning. Looking at the faces of your remaining companions, your cheeks grow warm. All had refused to abandon you, even in the face of certain death. (set: $data's likesR to it + 1)(set: $data's likesA to it + 1)(set: $data's likesM to it + 1)(set: $data's likesT to it + 1) [["I hadn't thought of it that way. Thank you... all of you... for standing by me." ->thanksFriends]] [["Well. What's done is done. Now, let's see about that inn." ->okay]]

You glance towards the inn. (display: "lookInn")

"You would have done the same for us," says Rain, smiling warmly. (set: $data's likesR to it + 2)(set: $data's likesA to it + 2)(set: $data's likesM to it + 2)(set: $data's likesT to it + 2) You squeeze his hand, (if: $data's marryR is 1)[and his gaze grows more direct. His fingers trace yours with delicate fire, invisible to others in the gathering dusk.](else:)[basking in the easy affection that seems to be returning between you. Apparently he's decided to pretend you never talked about being more than friends. Perhaps Goroduin put things in perspective. Perhaps it's for the best.] "That inn may suffice for tonight," says Andreas. His accent sounds harsher than usual. Your gaze follows his. (display: "lookInn")

(set: $settings to StrayHeirs["settings"])<script>window.StrayHeirs.applyStyle();</script> (if: $canundo)[ ------ |== (if: $settings's darkmode is 1)[(link-undo:'<img alt="Undo" src="arrow3.png"/>')](else:)[(link-undo:'<img alt="Undo" src="arrow3dark.png"/>')] ==| (if: $settings's darkmode is 1)[(link: '<img src="settings.png" alt="Info & Settings" />')[(goto:"otherInfo")]](else:)[(link: '<img src="settingsdark.png" alt="Info & Settings" />')[(goto:"otherInfo")]]](else:)[(set: $canundo to true)]

"I know we *could*... I guess I'm just so used to hiding my feelings, I can't imagine it!" Rain shakes his head. "And to be honest, part of me is still afraid you'll change your mind." (set: $data's likesR to it + 2) (if: $data's gotRing is 1)[Your hand strays to your pocket, touches something small and hard, flinches away as if burned. *Never again.* ](if: $data's sedK is 1)[Your mind flashes back to the Tower, to the rustle of diaphanous wings and the touch of scales. *That never happened.* ]You shake your head. This man is everything to you. Nothing will ever make you doubt it. "What's wrong, my love? You looked so serious suddenly!" [["I was just thinking, no matter how dark the future, how lucky I am to be with you! Don't you understand, you mean the world to me?" ->howLucky]] [["Rain, I'm never going to change my mind. Don't you understand? I love you! Now, shall we dance?" ->letsDance]]

"I love you!" Rain pulls you close and kisses you. You lean into his hug, basking in the warmth of his affection. For a long time, neither of you speaks. There's so much to say, and yet you cannot bear to break the simple joy of closeness. Your dearest friend, and your future husband. No matter what else goes wrong, this is one thing in your life that's right. (set: $data's likesR to it + 2) (if: $data's gotRing is 1)[You're certain of it. Your hand strays to your pocket, touches something small and hard, flinches away as if burned. *Absolutely certain.* ](if: $data's sedK is 1)[Your mind flashes back to the Tower, to the rustle of diaphanous wings and the touch of scales. *That never happened.* ]This man is all you want. Nothing will ever make you doubt it. "What's wrong, my love? You looked so serious suddenly!" [["I was just thinking, no matter how dark the future, how lucky I am to be with you!" ->howLucky]] [["Nothing, my dearest... Shall we dance?" ->letsDance]]

Rain's smile is serious now, though still full of affection. "I know exactly what you mean. Seline... I don't know if we'll succeed. We might not get out of this alive. But whatever the future holds, I'm so happy to be here with you, tonight." (set: $data's likesR to it + 2) He shakes his head. "So let's not waste the night being gloomy. Shall we dance?" [["Yes, let's!" ->danceWithRain]] [["Sorry, Rain. I don't feel like dancing right now." ->moveAwayRain]]

Rain nods decisively. "Yes, let's. That will cheer us up!" (set: $data's likesR to it + 2) (display: "danceWithRain")

Rain's lips tighten. "Fine. Whatever." You glare at each other. (display: "tryThis")

{ (if: $recap is 1)[*Kiaru took Seline to Caer Goroduin, revealing himself as the Sorcerer. He explained that he had planned to destroy the heirs of both Saragai and Thronheim, and unite the realms with Nyora as queen and Andreas as king under his control. However, because of Nyora's instability and Seline’s relationship with Andreas, he decided instead to use Seline to achieve his ambitions - by forcing her to play a game with him. (if: $data's lostGame is 3)[Seline lost the Sorcerer's game, and is now his slave. However, for now at least, he doesn't seem to want to control her directly.](elseif: $data's lostGame is 2)[Kiaru was defeated in the game and Seline became the new Sorcerer. Realising that the power would drive her mad, she followed Kiaru's advice to suppress her abilities until she can learn to use them wisely.](elseif: $data's lostGame is 1)[Seline agreed to wager her free will upon the outcome of the Sorcerer's game via blood sacrifice to the goddess Tlathel. However, the Sorcerer has permitted her to leave Caer Goroduin without playing - for now.](elseif: $data's lostGame is 0)[Seline refused to wager her free will upon the outcome of a game via blood sacrifice to the goddess Tlathel. She persuaded the Sorcerer to release her instead.] (if: $data's sedK is 1)[After seducing Kiaru, ]Seline fled from Caer Goroduin with her friends. Her memory of what happened there is rapidly fading.* (display: "skills") -----] (else:)[ (link: "Show recap")[ (set: $recap to 1) (replace: ?recap)[(display: "recap")] ] ] }

(if: $skill_name is "Deceive")[(set: $ability to $data's deceive/10)](elseif: $skill_name is "Fight")[(set: $ability to $data's fight/10)](elseif: $skill_name is "Charm")[(set: $ability to $data's charm/10)](elseif: $skill_name is "Will")[(set: $ability to $data's will/10)](elseif: $skill_name is "Persuade")[(set: $ability to $data's persuade/10)](else:)[Error: unknown skill] $skill_name (Skill $ability)

(set: $show_roll_details to 0)(set: $roll to $randarray's ($array_position))(set: $array_position to it + 1)(set: $total to (num: ($ability + $roll).toFixed(1)))(set: $difficulty to (num:($difficulty.toFixed(1))))(set: $recorded_difficulty to $difficulty)(set: $recorded_ability to $ability)(set: $recorded_skill_name to $skill_name)(if: $roll is 20)[(set: $success to true)Success!](elseif: $roll is 1)[(set: $success to false)Failure :(](elseif: $total >= $difficulty)[(set: $success to true)Success!](else:)[(set: $success to false)Failure :(] |roll_details>[(display: "Roll_details")]

{ (if: $show_roll_details is 1)[$recorded_skill_name: (print: ($recorded_ability).toFixed(1)) | Difficulty: (print: ($recorded_difficulty).toFixed(1)) | Roll: $roll | (if: $roll is 20)[Natural 20 = Automatic success](elseif: $roll is 1)[Natural 1 = Automatic failure](else:)[Total = (print: ($recorded_ability).toFixed(1)) + $roll = (print: ($total).toFixed(1)) | (print: ($total).toFixed(1))(if: $success is true)[ >= ](else:)[ < ](print: ($recorded_difficulty).toFixed(1))]] (else:)[ (link: "Show roll details?")[(set: $show_roll_details to 1) (replace: ?roll_details)[(display: "Roll_details")] ] ] }

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(set: $canundo to false) ###Info & Settings * **Undo**: Use the link at the bottom. Don't use your browser's back button. To change a choice in an earlier chapter, you need to redo that chapter *and* any subsequent ones. * **Skills**: Some choices can succeed or fail. You succeed if your skill + a D20 roll exceeds the difficulty of the choice, with automatic success/failure on a roll of 20/1 respectively. Skills increase with use. * **Relationships**: Relationships can affect the difficulty of skill-based choices. * **Endings**: The story has up to 20 chapters and a variety of endings. All major endings remain accessible until Chapter 16, after which the story diverges. ####Your data * **Storage**: Local storage is used only to transfer data between chapters. If you change browsers or delete your browser history you will start over. * **Privacy**: No personal data returns to the server. ####Settings * **Content**: Sex scenes are |button>[(display: "Button")] * **Display**: |modeButton>[(display: "DarkModeButton")] * **Font**: |fontButton>[(display: "FontSizeButtons")] (print: "<a href=\"../index.html\">Go to Contents Page</a>")(set: $settings to StrayHeirs["settings"])<script>window.StrayHeirs.applyStyle();</script> ------ (if: $settings's darkmode is 1)[(link-undo:'<img alt="Undo" src="arrow3.png"/>')](else:)[(link-undo:'<img alt="Undo" src="arrow3dark.png"/>')]

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<p style="color:red">Skills: Deceive (print: ($data's deceive/10).toFixed(1)) | Persuade (print: ($data's persuade/10).toFixed(1)) | Charm (print: ($data's charm/10).toFixed(1)) | Will (print: ($data's will/10).toFixed(1)) | Fight (print: ($data's fight/10).toFixed(1)) </p style><p style="color:red">Relationships: Tertia (print: ($data's likesT/10).toFixed(1)) | Andreas (print: ($data's likesA/10).toFixed(1)) | Rain (print: ($data's likesR/10).toFixed(1)) | Nyora (print: ($data's likesN/10).toFixed(1)) | Morael (print: ($data's likesM/10).toFixed(1)) | Kiaru (print: ($data's likesK/10).toFixed(1)) </p style>

She smiles, and raises her fists into a fighting pose. "Are you sure? Just let me at him! That dirty creep!" (set: $data's likesT to it + 2) Warmth surges in you - relief at both her good humour, and the realization that she can move freely despite her injuries. [["What about Norvidge and Grimvold? Are they here too?" ->norvidge]] [["Shall we see about that inn?" ->okay]]

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